Seeking Market Research Advice

[Montoya Lashley]

Hello BP, it's been a while since I posted, but I assure you I am still in this for the long haul. I was initially seeking opportunities of low and no money down, but realized that is just not my style as I prefer to be responsible for my own success so I've been focusing on paying down my debts to further enable me to save up for a down payment and so far I've paid off nearly $20K in one year!! I'm super excited to have gotten this far and will be able to begin saving for a down payment after my car is paid off this year. I'm on track to being able to purchase my first property in January 2018. 

Furthermore, I have also decided on my market area, Cicero, IL, a suburb just west of Chicago, which meets my criteria in regards to location, price, and low crime rates as I plan to house hack the 3+ multi-family property I plan to purchase. My question to you all is what do I need to know about my area and where can I conduct my research in the next year to be able to buy with absolute confidence in Jan. 2018? I want to use the time I have now to learn everything I need to learn and prepare as best as possible before taking the plunge. Please also feel free to provide any other commentary regarding my plans.